Halloween Safety

Choose Halloween Products Safely 

Many Halloween products are bought online or at the last minute, making it easy to overlook important safety information.

Before buying costumes, decorations, toys or accessories:

• Check who is selling the product and buy from reputable retailers.
• Read safety information, warnings and instructions carefully.
• Make sure the product is suitable for the person who will be using it.
• Check whether the product has been subject to a safety recall.
• Be cautious of products that lack clear safety information.

Taking a few extra minutes before you buy can help reduce the risk of unsafe products entering your home.

Trick-or-treating

Many Halloween celebrations, including trick-or-treating take place after sunset, making road safety and visibility especially important. Children wearing dark costumes can be less visible to motorists, particularly in poor weather or on poorly lit streets.

For children and families

When trick-or-treating:

• Carry a torch to help you see and be seen.
• Add reflective materials to costumes where possible.
• Use pavements wherever available.
• Cross roads carefully and use designated crossing points when possible.
• Avoid distractions when near roads.

Pumpkin Carving Safety 

Pumpkin carving is a popular Halloween tradition, but sharp tools used to carve pumpkins can cause injury.

To carve pumpkins more safely:

• Use tools designed for pumpkin carving where possible.
• Work on a stable surface in a well-lit area.
• Cut away from your body and keep fingers clear of blades.
• Closely supervise children.
• Ensure children only use age-appropriate tools.

For younger children, decorating pumpkins with paints, stickers or pens can be a safer alternative.

Read more about Halloween safety on the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents website: RoSPA- Halloween Safety